Immediate thoughts on Wk 13
Nov
2005
With every passing week, the Wesley 47-0 debacle loss at Brockport State gets more and more puzzling. How could this team go up to Brockport, field conditions aside, and not put up one single point? My trip to Wesley the next week to see them pound Salisbury began the puzzlement — it was obvious this was a good team, with the ability to win a playoff game or two, but to become the first non-Texas team to win a playoff game in the Lone Star State since 2001?
Incredible. And that’s coming from me, after picking Wesley as the cinderella team in the bracket on the ESPNews selection show.
Another home game on turf. Then a trip West for the winner. Who knew.
Mount Union pulls another Mount Union and rolls a quality opponent. I know Capital is a familiar opponent, but that bodes well for Mount Union, which has had a tendency to pound OAC teams the second time around.
Even though St. John’s helped UW-Whitewater out, Whitewater would have won on its own today. Five of the seven fumbles were forced and defensively, Whitewater was making plays even when not taking the ball away. Other than a brief period in the third quarter, St. John’s couldn’t stop Justin Beaver and Derek Stanley burned the Johnnies defense for a pair of big plays when they needed them.
West Region final should be a dandy. So should the South. Not so sure about the East, if Rowan has found its stroke again it might not be much different than last year’s Rowan/Delaware Valley regional final.
No stupid e-mail of the week, at least not ones I have with me, so we’ll have to suffice with the …
Bad karma moment of the weekend: Two St. John’s fans independently coming up to me and asking me why UW-Whitewater passed them in the poll a few weeks ago. Never a good idea right before a head-to-head matchup.
November 27th, 2005 at 12:38 am
And I have a 6 a.m. flight out of O’Hare. Gotta get some sleep now.
November 27th, 2005 at 5:21 am
Paul “Bear” Bryant was fond of saying, “when you pass, three things can happen and two of them are bad.” Yesterday five of Union’s completions were caught by Rowan. That’s really bad. Rowan’s defense lived up to its billing. Union reverted to some of its mid season sloppiness and it cost them dearly. The Dutchmen still put up 24 points against the Beast of the East, thereby validating their presence in the playoffs. Were it not for those picks, who knows. But that’s sports. Union has much to be proud of. We said Rowan would be a tough opponent, definitely the favorite in our book. The Union magic was not there at the end, but what a season!
November 27th, 2005 at 9:04 am
How about MOUNT UNION beat Augustana at their own game.
November 27th, 2005 at 9:31 am
SeanGOP,
Otterbein could take your Augies. Augustana learned a little bit about playing a team from a strong conference.
So much for the vaunted Augustana defense. They got smacked in the mouth today.
At least you were right about one thing, Whitewater looks tough.
Go Raiders!! Congratulations to Capital! The rematch should great.
November 27th, 2005 at 10:08 am
Pat,
As bad as an excuse as it sounds, Looks like mother nature played right into Brockports defensive scheme that day and after getting up its worked to perfection. Ferrum tried the same strategies 7 and 8 ma coverage and look what happened. Warrick seemed unruffled by the 9 man fronts yesterday. Looks like another great game coming up this week.
November 27th, 2005 at 10:42 am
Kudos to Wesley for deservedly winning the game, but UMHB did play right into their hands with some stubborn play calling on both sides of the ball. They certainly could have opened up the offense - an occasional play-action pass on first down might have slowed down the Wesley front four. Putting all those guys in the box against a passing team that kept burning them with the deep ball was very curious. You don’t want your All-America caliber safety (Kubiak) staying home to cover a rushing attack that was averaging something like 2.5 yds/carry (before a few decent runs after the game was decided).
Not only did the Crusaders get out-executed, but they got out-coached. Congrats to the Wolverines who executed against what they saw on the game films.
November 27th, 2005 at 12:34 pm
As for MUC…
I arrived in Alliance on Friday afternoon and had dinner with MUC’s commerical play-by-play guy Ric Brienza. One of the first things Ric said to me is that Nate Kmic is the best running back Mount has had, possibly ever. Playing in four games, Kmic had almost 400 yards and 3 scores, all while playing second fiddle to Aaron Robinson.
I wouldn’t say Kehres beat Augustana at their own game. Augie doesn’t even run a wing-T - it’s a smoke and mirrors approach to rushing. The ball is going to one of four people - so cover em…Kmic simply ran all over Augustana. No smoke and mirrors. Half of his runs were right up the gut. This kid averaged 9.1 yards per carry on 37 attempts and the longest run was 34 yards. AMAZING.
After witnessing that performance, I’ll see Mount in Salem.
November 27th, 2005 at 12:55 pm
First off I would like to say GREAT SEASON to the Union College Dutchmen! For such a group of scholar atheletes to compete the way they have is wonderful and exactly what Division III sports is about. You guys are great! I also take my hat off to a Rowen team that worked very hard, and stepped up defensively to win the game. One thing bothers me though, maybe I am wrong and if I am I have no problem with someone telling me I am. Yesterday, especially in the second half Union seemed to always force the long pass on first down. This was effective in the first half but it was obvious that it was not working in the second, yet they kept throwing long on 1st. Rowen clearly made the proper adjustments, still the calls were the same. The result; third and long over and over again in very pressure situations. Now my point is this: You have got the 2nd best rusher in the nation, you have time on the clock (Union had the ball more than a few times in the third and early in the fourth), and all of your recievers have great hands (including a tight end). Why go for it all, time and time again. Why not go short, run and then pass. Mix it up. I played hockey in college and still knew what was coming on first down. It was just frustrating and I think some of the play calling put to much pressure on Marotti (in a snowstorm!). I will also say I feel Rowan was not really stopping the run because the run was never given a chance. First half Arcidiacano had 64 yards on only 12 carries, not all that bad against the nations 4th rated run defense. You cannot win at that level forcing just one weapon. I think Marotti played great, I didn’t see the mix ups and bad decisions that I saw earlier in the year. I just saw a quaterback who was giving his all to make things happen. He just needed a break and some different calls so the defense did not know what was coming. I love Union and its coach, he is great! This is just a thought I had and wanted to get it out there. Hats off to the entire Union program.
November 27th, 2005 at 1:07 pm
From the Delaware Valley-Hobart perspective, the Aggies started slow, came on late and had to win in the final few minutes. Stop me if you’ve heard this before.
Hobart’s defense, particularly the secondary, played well and Blakowski did a good job running the ball. Even graduating several seniors on defense, the Statesmen should be very much in the Liberty League mix next year with just about everyone back on offense. And DL Ryan Aruck is a BEAST as a freshman.
As for Rowan, there’s not another team in this region that could lose their QB, RB and maybe best DL and still get this far. The Profs have incredible depth, which isn’t always appreciated because their starters are so good.
I talked with ONU grad Paul Schreel (who’s done a great job on color the past two weeks) about Mount Union’s domination and he rightly pointed out that Kehres and his staff do a great job convincing talented players to come to Alliance even though they may not play the first year or two. That builds the depth you need to be excellent over many years. It’s not at the same scale, but Rowan has done that well in the East.
November 27th, 2005 at 1:10 pm
The road to Salem looks clearer. I’m still concerned about Capital. I know Mount’s history of playing other OAC school’s in the playoffs. They should take care of Capital handily. I was also fortunate to enough to see MUC and Capital during the regular season. Capital is strong. I think MUC has too many weapons. Now that Nate Kmic decided to outgain Augstana’s entire offense. I also wanted to thank Capital for taking care of Wabash. We weren’t looking forward to that road trip, had Wabash won.
We also do not have to put up with The Little Giant male cheerleading squad. Anyone who plays Wabash knows what I mean.
GO Purple Raiders!
November 27th, 2005 at 1:11 pm
Wabash fans will blame the refs, and there were some questionable calls, but dropped passes lost the game. this site’s prediction would have been dead-on correct had Wabash hauled in a soft toss just before the game-clinching “interception.” Capital may not be able to slow down Kmic, but they sure slowed the Wabash machine yesterday. An exciting game.
November 27th, 2005 at 1:41 pm
Well, I questioned whether MUC would have even one tough game in their region, especially with homefield advantage. So far its the same old. So much for Augustana doing diddly, although sounds like it was due more to MUC just being that good rather than Augustana not deserving to be there. Another home game for MUC this Saturday and if Rowan wins, yet another despite coming into the tourney with a loss.
Speaking of Rowan, my disappointment with the East continues. If the East was ever going to show that its not a one trick pony this was the year. The Profs lost their QB people! And they are STILL beating everyone in this region. If Delaware Valley can’t get it done this Saturday two things we have long known will be proven. Rowan really is that good of a program and the East is as weak a region we will ever see.
UW-Whitewater appears to be even better than everyone thought. How many teams not named MUC have defeated St. Johns by 27?Epic game this Saturday in Oregon. The Warhawks should be playing MUC this Saturday, and Capital should have been sent East to add some depth, but we already know that.
And I can’t believe UMHB’s season is over. After their run last season and having most of those players back plus their decisive win over Trinity, I thought they were a lock in the South. Props to Wesley for beating a very good football team.
November 27th, 2005 at 1:56 pm
Congrats to Capital!!! They have an excellent defense. The Crusaders offense put enough points on the board to earn the win. For Wabash, there were too many dropped passes, too many overthrown balls. Wabash can’t have a turnover inside Capital’s 5 and an “interception” in the end zone and win a defensive battle like the one yesterday. All that being said, the officiating was not playoff caliber. No wonder they refused to be interviewed by the media after the game. Good luck to Capital against Mount Union!!!
November 27th, 2005 at 2:07 pm
Can’t remember the last time the NCAA allowed the media to interview the officials, regardless of outcome. Doubt there’s any conspiracy here.
November 27th, 2005 at 2:27 pm
I guess officials are allowed to comment to explain a call they made during the game. This is the Exerpt from the Wabash web site “Referee Craig Jeffreys refused to meet with a designated media pool reporter, as allowed under NCAA rules, after the game to explain the interception call.” Anyway though not saying that it cost Wabash the game but it was a bad call. Though the Capital player came down with the ball, both players clearly landed out of bounds. Capital sealed the win with a huge play on third down to seal Wabash’s fate. Great almost comeback by Wabash…a truely great game. Good Luck to Capital against the mighty Mt. Union!!!
November 27th, 2005 at 3:37 pm
Well D3forme, I really do not want to be rude so I won’t, but…I feel there is a distinct difference between many of the eastern schools and many of the western schools. It is called academic excellence. Make sure you go easy on a region that cantains many top academic institutions that allow very few academic exceptions for student atheletes that they are recruiting. I can say that Union, Hobart, and RPI alone are stronger academic instituitons than any offered by a western division III football power. Of coarse we have our Ithacas and Rowans that maybe exceptions but overall many more eastern schools represent true DIII scholar atheletes (not that I would take anything away from any student athelete, but this gentleman wishes to kncok the eastern region). This is not even a debate. The West has many wonderful schools with great programs but always remember, most choose from a different pool of students than many of the eastern schools do. So go easy, in the overall picture academics come before winning football games in DIII, that what makes this div and all these atheletes special!
November 27th, 2005 at 3:44 pm
Pool reporter, that’s different than a media mob situation. Though I should’ve known that.
One other story to relate from Saturday. Stayed at a hotel near O’Hare airport to make it easier to get out at 0600 this morning. Driving there after dinner, down an empty stretch of road. Cop pulls out of a side street and settles in behind me — I have the cruise control set at 40 in a 40-mph zone. After a minute or so, he pulls me over, tells me I was going 46 in a 35.
Yeah, right.
Also wanted to see the registration, said the plate was registered to a 2005 Ford (hard to argue, I had no idea there). Since it was a rental, I wasn’t responsible for that, and since the speeding charge was patently bogus, he let me off with … well, nothing, really, not even a real warning.
Then he got back in behind me, as we passed a sign that reiterated the correct speed limit was 40. (I was paying attention, I mean, shoot, I knew he was a cop when he turned onto the road.)
Good thing he didn’t ask me to blow, though — I had had some beer with dinner about 40 minutes earlier and I probably would have registered .03 or .04, not DUI but enough for him to harrass me some more.
Guess there aren’t any more important things to do in Elk Grove Village.
November 27th, 2005 at 5:14 pm
dlippiel, are you seriously going to go to the academic card already? DIII is the most even playing field out there. It is composed of like minded institutions that do no allow athletic scholarships. There are many top academic institutions outside of the East. I really can’t believe you went there in an attempt to explain why the East’s football teams, aside from Rowan (and RPI’s team a couple of years ago) have not been competitive with the rest of the country. The fact remains that Rowan has dominated this region for years. Many think the QB position is the most important in all of sports, and the Profs lost a very good one. They are now playing the “best” teams in the East. I would think a good team, not even necessarily a great team, could take down a squad who just lost their leader, especially if they are a playoff team. So far, it’s still the Beast and everyone else. I don’t think that has squat to do with academics.
November 27th, 2005 at 6:08 pm
When you look at recruiting and consistancy of schools atheletic programs they go hand in hand with academics period. I do agree with alot of what you said previously. Believe me I would love to see more than one team from the east compete on a national level. It is also does show the east is weak when the so called “Beast” loses their QB and still takes the region. Yet I am just saying why this happens. There is a difference between recruiting pools even in DIII football, it is a fact. Unless you are very very good year in and year out for the most part you are going to have a hard time getting the best players. Especially when many cannot get into your school. You ask Rowans coach which type of student he targets when recruiting, then ask the coach of Union which type of kid he can recruit and I know they will have totally different answers. Its a fact jack deal with it. I do however feel that I should narrow my academic excuse to certain schools, more of which play in the east. I guess when I look at a Cortland state, Brockport state, Springfield etc I see your point.I think we both have spoken alot of truth here. Oh by by the way no other region is dominated by one team? I guess MT Union does not count? Again, what makes DIII so great, and these athelets so special is that the academic card always counts, always.
November 27th, 2005 at 6:48 pm
dlippiel,
Are you saying that students who are better academically, are generally worse athletically? Can the best athletes not be as successful academically?
Perhaps the reason Rowan is so good in the east, is because they are a primarily passing team in a primarily rushing region. If you look at the stats of the 8 teams in the east, on average they give up less than 60% than what they give rushing the ball. However, they give up more than 90% of what they give on the passing end. The west is almost identical on the rushing end, but they only give up 75% of what they give passing.
If your offense runs well, your defense is probably pretty good at defending the run. If your offense passes well, your defense is probably pretty good at defending the pass.
Maybe that is why Rowan can put 4 or 5 wide outs on the field and pass all over the rushing teams of the east. But then get blown out 52-0 when they face a heavy passing team from the West.
November 27th, 2005 at 6:57 pm
dlippiel:
Playing the academic card is not germane to this discussion. Your comments regretably evoke a stereotype of the Eastern snob. I think you may be pretty lonely in this debate should you choose to prolong it.
November 27th, 2005 at 7:06 pm
dlippiel and D3forme
Guys I thouht this was a DIII football blog, try US News and World reports web site if you want to discuss academics.
But I was confused by D3forme’s comments about Eastern Football.
How could anyone draw any conclusions about’s Rowan’s dominance from Saturday’s games? How does Union losing to Rowan by 4 points prove anything about Rowan’’s dominance of the East? I believe statistically Union out gained Rowan and Union drives at the end the half and game ended in interceptions. Different game results if these picks don’t happen! The most dominate team in DIII football over the last 10 years isn’t Rown it is Mount Union! Based of yesterday’s game results, I think the Liberty League stature should go up! Hobart and Union gave Rowan and Delaware Valley a run for thier money. Why pick on the East?
November 27th, 2005 at 7:07 pm
Because once it gets outside of its own region, the East hasn’t exactly had great playoff performances of late.
November 27th, 2005 at 8:13 pm
Exactly, Pat.
foxsden, this should support my argument of Rowan’s dominance in the East. Check out their playoff win scores since 1999:
29-10
55-0
42-13
40-17
43-14
48-0
45-14
56-7
42-3
28-24
This doesn’t even include their wins in the East Region the years they won it in ‘93, ‘95, ‘96 & ‘98. Tell me that’s not utter dominance. Other than the Profs 3 point loss to Brockport State in ‘02 and their close win yesterday, they have annihilated every team they’ve played in the East region playoffs since ‘99 (and maybe before that too, not sure what the scores were). Take out the two games mentioned above, and they have won by an AVERAGE of 36 points/game. Include the game against Union and it’s still almost 33 points/game. Now, they have no Orihel and they continue to beat teams in this region. All I’m saying is if the East wants to be recognized as anything other than Rowan then the least they could do is have someone in this region beat the Profs, especially when they are without the guy who ran the show at QB. Delaware Valley gets the last crack at it until next year.
November 27th, 2005 at 8:35 pm
I think D3forme makes a valid point here and I hope I did not sound to abbrasive. I guess I am sensitive to the east. I do believe what I said though and I feel it is a valid argument (not snobbery) when comparing certain schools to others. How does Rowan compare to the top schools left in other regions? Can Delaware Valley take them? It will be very interesting to see.
November 27th, 2005 at 9:46 pm
dlippiel, no problem and I can understand your affinity for the east. It’s just that I have been wishing for a long time we could start seeing some different teams from the North and/or South added to the East (and at the same time fewer at-large bids given to East teams) to make things more competitive, and continue to be let down by the committee. Nothing against you.
November 27th, 2005 at 9:54 pm
I removed a blatantly biased and inaccurate reference to Rowan’s starting lineup, a “fact” that was never true, even in the most extreme example years.
November 27th, 2005 at 11:03 pm
I’m not convinced that the comparisons based on east vs. west and which kind of student-athletes can be recruited is a valid one. I’m also not seeing a correlation between the lower admission standards and playoff wins.
Here is the percentage of incoming freshmen whose SAT scores exceed 500 in Verbal and Math from this year’s east bracket:
Curry: V 31% M 20%
Delaware Valley: V 51% M 54%
Cortland St: V 31% M 38%
Hobart: V 90% M 93%
Rowan: V 77% M 80%
Wilkes: V 65% M 67%
Ithaca: V 90% M 93%
Union: V 97% M 99%
Now look at Mount Union and Linfield, two consistently successful teams from outside the east:
Mt. Union: V 60% M 69%
Linfiend: V 76% M 80%
It looks to me like these schools would finish near the middle of the pack in the east as far as admissions standards for freshmen (Mt. Union on the low side of the middle, Linfield slightly above the middle.)
I’m not sure one can say (paraphrsing) “The east isn’t as good in football as other regions because SCHOLAR athletes must be recruited.” It also looks like Rowan has tougher admissions standards than most of the east bracket.
No Barry Switzer Oklahoma teams here.
November 27th, 2005 at 11:19 pm
D3forme
The NCAA sent a N region team to the East in 2002. John Carroll was 2nd in the OAC and won all 3 post-season games in the East, only to return to be beaten badly by Mt Union in the semis.
Maybe a form of football affirmative action is the answer for the East? OK, for those of you who take this forum TOO seriously, I’m kidding.
November 28th, 2005 at 12:07 am
Like some of the other traditional DIII football powerhouses, Rowan is always on the lookout (and believe me…..not just on the lookout!!) for the disgruntled DI, DI-AA, DII player who would rather become a big fish in a small pond versus the unknown/forgotten fish in an ocean. Some of the best players on the DIII powerhouses outside of the East would be playing at the DII level (or the DI-AA level if up to snuff academically…..including the Ivies……go Penn!!) if they were on the East Coast. Other than possibly a Rowan (recruiting tactics with transfers), I don’t forsee an Eastern power ever having the chance at dominating the country like a Linfield, Mount Union due to the sheer number of DIII alternatives in the East (levels out the playing field) as well as the plethora of excellent DII and DI-AA options. I look at the Linfield’s, Mount Union’s and the few Texas schools as more similar to DII or DI-AA schools in the East. Brett Elliott could be plying his trade at an Eastern DI-AA, getting an incredible education (for free!!!!!!………if he’s not at Linfield!!!) and a better look see from the NFL. He did start ahead of this past year’s No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft back at the U of U didn’t he??
Whatever happens to the Delaware Valley-Rowan winner in the National Semifinals is fine with me. Without a roster of players who could/should be playing at a higher collegiate level……….it’s never going to happen for the East!!! And that’s just fine with me.
November 28th, 2005 at 12:10 am
I don’t believe Rowan recruits transfers. Recruiting transfers is illegal — it’s called tampering.
November 28th, 2005 at 12:17 am
The east has the best team in the country. Just ask Trinity. They have a ten team league and only play eight games a year. They’re winning game after game against their own league but won’t dare step out against anyone else in the east or any other region. What is that all about? The eastern region needs to get their best team to come out of their cocoon and play some games with the rest of you so they can carry the banner in the D3 tournament for the east.
Rowan will probably step aside and give them a pass to play in their place.
November 28th, 2005 at 12:34 am
pcole - You could ask the father of a former [removed] about that one!!!
November 28th, 2005 at 12:38 am
And you could substantiate your allegations or stop posting them here. Thanks.
November 28th, 2005 at 12:59 am
pcole - I would never make any allegation that could not be substantiated nor would I substantiate though in a forum such as this. One other point as far as Rowan’s eastern dominance. If you are a South Jersey High School football player and want to stay local (and are not a DI caliber player), Rowan truly is your primary, if not sole choice. If you are in the Southeastern PA area and want to stay fairly local, you’ve got DVC, Widener, Albright, Moravian, Muhlenberg (I’m probably leaving out a few) along with a few good DII’s (West Chester, still alive East Stroudsburg) and some I-AA’s. Rowan has a huge advantage at the DIII level in the East!!! Do you know where their starting QB and stud WR started their respective collegiate careers? I love the site and it is fun to talk DIII football at 1:00am. I miss my playing days in the MAC!!!!
November 28th, 2005 at 12:59 am
On the academic issue Larry Kehres was at a speaking engagement recently. He was asked about some of his records and statistics. The statistic he was most proud of was only three of his players have not received their degrees since he has been there. He must be getting the few smart athletes from the east to attend Mount causing a severe imbalance in the east. The only students left are smart but not athletic?
And please dlippiel if you are going to play the academics card grab a Websters and check out athlete and athletics. It’s not athelete. I guess Webster couldn’t get in an eastern school either. But he was a heck of a QB in his day.
November 28th, 2005 at 4:19 am
Gosh, I don’t know PikeCat, if you’re going to do some research and play the academic card, at least do some smart research. That argument’s tired and often the alibi of last resort for sore losers.
For example, the school that has won four of the last six titles in the West (arguably one of the top regions year in and year out with four different teams winning titles over the past 10 seasons) has a higher average SAT (Princeton Review) than every East playoff team except Union.
How does that fit with your theory?
November 28th, 2005 at 6:15 am
PikeCat - I think the real question is how many of those student/athletes in the %’s that you noted that DON’T have over 500 and still get into the schools you list that are blue chip football players. (sorry for the run on sentence) Four or five blue chip players can make a huge difference between a team making it several rounds into the playoffs or sitting at home. Case in point. I will use the ODAC since that is what I am familiar with. Washington & Lee had a very good 7 and 3 season. Beating a very good Hampden-Sydney team and coming a play or two from beating Bridgewater. While all ODAC schools are very solid academically, W&L is at the top of the list. Four or five additional blue chip players and W & L is in perhaps and Bridgewater probably sits at home.
D3 has it down about as well as possible. It is an impossible task to get the playing field completely level. There aren’t too many academic slouches in D3. After all, student/athlete is the essence of what D3 is all about in the first place. There are many factors that make a successful program. (Eg: quality coaches, facilities, tradition, administrative support, aid, etc.) Being able to get those four or five players each year that other schools cannot will always make a huge difference.
November 28th, 2005 at 7:50 am
Which statement is more true?
Are any statements false?
1) The West bracket is by far the toughest top-to-bottom bracket, as evidenced by 5 undefeated teams entering the playoffs.
2) The West region is the most top-heavy region, as evidenced by both finalists winning each playoff game so far by 14+ points.
3) The West region has the most over-rated teams of any region, as evidenced by 3 undefeated teams losing by 27+ points.
November 28th, 2005 at 7:56 am
For all the academics discussion types..
My last post should read: Which statement is MOST true?
November 28th, 2005 at 8:49 am
Easy Raiderguy:) MY EXCUSE this time won’t be academics but typos! I just can’t type fast, but I am improving.
November 28th, 2005 at 8:53 am
Again, aside from academics I think d3forme is right. It would be nice to see some other eastern schools compete at a national level. What needs to happen so this can be the case? Any ideas? DOes everyone feel it is a equal playing field across the board? Does anyone see any programs in the future from the east that will challenge Rowan on a yearly basis?
November 28th, 2005 at 8:59 am
D3forme
All the statistics you quote are probabaly true, but this it is all ancient history.
This blog is entitled “immediate thoughts on week 13″ and you are quoting Rowan scores in the plauoffs from the last mellenium.
Rowan beat Union 28 to 24, the second lowest point spead in the DIII playoffs on Saturday.I don’t think this tells us squat about Rowan’s dominance in the East!
We will learn more in two weeks when the regional winners square off in the National semi finals. Then we will know which regions are stronger!
You may be right that other regions are stonger than the EAST, but you didn’t learn that on Saturday watching Union play Rowan!
November 28th, 2005 at 9:23 am
Congratulations to the Concordia College Cobbers on a great season! They held their own against the number 1 team in the nation. I was listening on the radio and the Cobbers had a number of opportunities to upset the Wildcats. There is a team that appears to be back on the winning track. Congratulations to Coach Horan, his staff, and the players who worked hard this year. Go Cobbers!!!
November 28th, 2005 at 10:18 am
Rerepete–
I guess it fits with my theory–smart kids who meet high academic standards can play good football. One need not load a team with Dexter Manleys in order to succeed.
Allsky7–I don’t know the answer to the “how many blue chippers are admitted with weak academic credentials” question. I can certainly speculate about it, but I don’t know fr certain.
re: players transferring from D-I to D-III–many do it so they won’t have to sit out a season like they would if they transferred to another D-I school.
November 28th, 2005 at 11:11 am
dlippiel
No problem. It just seemed funny because of the topic. No harm no foul.
November 28th, 2005 at 12:50 pm
PikeCat,
That’s what I get for posting at 4 a.m. I’m with you on that and must have confused your post with those on the other side, such as dlippiel. It was the use of LC and MUC that threw me — because the example I cited “monkey stomps” (thanks, RPI) his point.. I generally tread carefully on the whole academic angle because in d3 because the arguments are seldom valid. Sorry for the confusion. I am now self-enforcing a posting curfew.
November 28th, 2005 at 1:04 pm
About the three statements — I might say statement three could be false. Just because St. John’s and Occidental didn’t perform well against the top two teams in the bracket does not mean there are any teams that could have performed better.
November 28th, 2005 at 7:34 pm
Re: BOLDCobber…..The Concordia Football program came back to McMinnville(after 27 years) last weekend.
From my perspective as a Wildcat fan and outside support vendor…it was the most serious battle test I’ve seen since the MHB-v-Linfield championchip game last year.
Although I doubt any losing team wants to necessarily try to feel better about losing…I’d like to say this: The quality of play that rises to the top through the D3 playoffs is another great characteristic and result of a system of sport that leaves other divisions missing the mark…badly!
I had the chance to briefly talk with a few Cobber players and coaches just following the game. There were no slumped shoulders in the bunch!
These are “Stand Up” guys, gridiron warriors and gentlemen all.
November 28th, 2005 at 8:16 pm
Quick question about the “weak ” East. In the “Our Predictions” section leading up to last week’s eight games, the single largest prediction spread was a score of Mary Hardin-Baylor 30 vs. Wesley 10. The prediction ended with the line “Wesley is a nice squad, but they will find that the Crusaders are on a completely different level”. Can anybody help me and explain what happened to MHB’s defense…….on their home field no less?!?!
How many quality D3, D2 and D1-AA schools are there in states like Oregon, Texas, Minnesota?
Finally, the Gagliardi should not go to a player who was once starting ahead of last year’s #1 pick in the NFL Draft at the D1 level. It should go to D3 talent playing at the D3 level. Adam Knoblauch, record setting QB at Delaware Valley College.
P.S. Name the current D3 coach most likely to be leading a major D1 program within the next 7-10 years……….G.A. Mangus of Delaware Valley College. Unlike the remaining 7 teams in the field, his is the only roster without a dozen or so players who could/should be playing a level or two up from D3. Making the most with the least is what great coaching can do for a program.
November 28th, 2005 at 8:26 pm
foxsden….Uhhh the statistics I quote are not “probably true.” They are fact. Also, they are not “ancient history” or from “the last millennium.” They are from ‘99 to the present. Tune in. And my comments do apply to the topic. My comment pertaining to “immediate thoughts to Week 13″ is that even without their QB, Rowan is still thumping everyone in the East. Whether it be by 40+ like in the first round or 4, they are still running over everyone in this region. I appreciate different people’s thoughts on why this might be. They sure beat “I don’t think this tells us squat about Rowan’s dominance in the East.” Please.
November 28th, 2005 at 8:36 pm
In terms of quality of play, anyone that watched the Union/Rowan battle saw two powerful, well-coached athletic teams deliver spirited performances.
Hats off to Rowan - a strong entry that showed its championship mettle against an outstanding and balanced Union attack. All the talk of Rowan being a D-1 dumping ground is grossly misplaced. These were top flight D-III ballers, with few holes at any position.
Nonetheless, any Rowan supporter who attended the game had to feel lucky to get out of Schenectady alive, as the Dutchman literally had one more offensive drive “within their grasp”, as the talented and well balanced Rowan back Albri, after an apparent third-down tackle for loss, was propelled forward for a big gain and first down that sealed the victory.
This was a very evenly matched battle, up front, and at the skill positions. All was on display in frigid weather and snow. In the end, 5 interceptions in a playoff game is too much to overcome against a disciplined, well coached team like Rowan. I’ll be frank, they were not the type of team I expected, and didn’t nearly resemble the jumbo athletic Rowan teams of the mid-90’s.
To the Union QB’s credit (Marotti), three or four of the five picks resulted from great defensive plays and not particularly errant throws. He otherwise played outstanding, and demonstrated vertical passing skills rarely seen in D-III. Watch out for him next year.
As for Rowan’s QB, he can best be described as “ugly-good”. The kid just got it done, over and over, converting, I believe, 12 of 22 third downs. Gritty. Rowan - Best of luck in the rest of the playoffs. Please shut the blowhards out West up.
We look forward, hopefully, to a rematch in 2006, as the Dutchman return all there skill kids, including its QB, the nations #2 rusher (who is equally adept at receiving out of the backfield), and all of its WR’s, including one kid (Angiletta) that evokes memories of Ithaca’s Ismailoff from the early 90’s. The kid was clearly the best player on the field on Saturday - as I’m sure any Rowan fan would attest.
Once again, great coaching and memorable performances on both sides.
November 28th, 2005 at 8:44 pm
dukefinadv,
I have been waiting for someone to bring up how many colleges are in Oregon, Texas, and Minnesota.
The answer is it really doesn’t matter. All colleges recruit. The fact is some schools are better at recruiting. Linfield, St Johns, Mt Union, Rowan, Trinity all do a great job of recruiting. I don’t even want to bring up how small of a state Oregon is compared to many of the other states. Per-Capita, Oregon is very small so to bring up the argument that they get the best kids because very few schools play football is not valid. Infact it is an insult to all those coaches.
As for your pick as the Gagliardi award you obviously are very biased. I don’t know if Brett Elliott should get the award or not. As already talked about on this forum it does not always go to the best player. Brett Elliott is the best player. It goes to the best all around student/athlete/citizen. I do believe Brett Elliott is this person.
So….in conclusion. This forum should be about next weeks games, not someone complaining about lack of teams in one area or D1 kickbacks.
We have so many things to celebrate at the D3 level. Please don’t make this a forum of garbage. Make this a forum for rooting on your team with out cutting down other hard working programs.
November 28th, 2005 at 8:53 pm
dutchman89 - Rowan still has to win on Saturday to get a chance to shut up the blowhards from out West. Hobart’s coach was very honest after the DVC-Hobart game last week. He stated that the horrible condition of DVC’s field was a huge help to his team and stopped DVC from jumping out early and big. He spoke highly of Union and stated that DVC would probably beat Union at DVC………and Union would probably beat DVC at Union. Given the close game between Rowan and Union, the Rowan-DVC game should be a close one (I’ll take DVC plus the 7 points!!!!). Also, Rowan may not be a D1 dumping ground but their All-American WR is a D1 transfer and their injured QB stepped down from D1-AA along with a HB and a few linemen.
D3forme - read my posts from this morning at 12:07am and 12:59am for a little insight into Rowan’s built-in advantage in the East. They are truly Southern New Jersey’s only solid D3 alternative……..unlike players in PA, NY and New England where the talent is much more spread out.
November 28th, 2005 at 9:23 pm
Hey Duke - If the Aggies were half as good as you say they are, they’d be twice as good as they actually are. Good luck next week against the Profs. I’m sure they’re getting a kick out of your blogs, especially in light of last year’s thumping.
As far as recruiting, good programs at good schools don’t need to just recruit “locally”. Good schools simply draw from a bigger radius. As for Rowan, the best D-III caliber players are drawn to a strong program with a winning tradition. That’s why Rowan’s roster is dominated by NJ players. Also, last I looked, NJ has several decent D-III programs that have had NCAA experience (College of NJ, Montclair, William Patterson).
Please, enough with the tough talk. Get to the Stagg Bowl, at least once, then we’ll give you some latitude.
November 28th, 2005 at 9:39 pm
dukefinadv
“PS. Name the current D3 coach most likely to be leading a major D1 program within the next 7-10 years……….G.A. Mangus of Delaware Valley College. Unlike the remaining 7 teams in the field, his is the only roster without a dozen or so players who could/should be playing a level or two up from D3. Making the most with the least is what great coaching can do for a program.”
What a pile of crap. Where did you dig up this fun statistic? For all the success of the DV program this year I am sure the players are glad to know they don’t really have the skills to compete anywhere else but D3. And if not for their coaches’ brilliance they would be sentenced to a life of mediocrity on the football field. By the way how many quarters is this D1 genius on the field helping them out?
How did these 84 players escape the recruiting wars of all the other divisions available? I am also trying to recall the last D3 coach that landed a head coaching job at a “major D1 school” coming out of D3.
November 28th, 2005 at 9:44 pm
fb fan - No harm meant by the dialogue. I don’t really have “a team” as much as I am defending “a region”…..the East. I love the purity of D3 (when it’s pure) and much more of my annual financial support goes towards a couple of D3 programs……..not the D1 programs where I received my advanced degrees. The per capita route does carry some water but when you’re recruiting base includes several states (including California), it doesn’t fill the bucket. One of my SVP’s out West (who is from a D1-AA school from the East - Lehigh) has a nephew who transferred to Linfield from Oregon State. He has seen Linfield three times this year and made mention of Linfield being at least a D2 or a lower level D1-AA back in the East. I’m happy with the Trinity’s, DVC’s, Rowan’s……regardless of what happens in the national semifinals. Mount Union should roll either one of them (Rowan or DVC) and give Linfield a great game in the finals. One last thing, no bias about the Gagliardi (although I have heard about an anti-Elliott bias from others). With 225 yards on Saturday, Adam Knoblauch (DVC) will become the #2 QB in the history of collegiate football……all levels (behind some guy named McNair) in total yardage and playing against competition his equal versus competition that he is obviously superior against. We’ll all see when the votes are counted and I wish all of them and all of the remaining teams nothing but the best of luck!!
November 28th, 2005 at 10:02 pm
Re: D3 “purity”
# of scholarships awarded:
Delaware Valley: 0
Rowan: 0
Mount Union: 0
Linfield: 0
All other D3 schools: 0
There’s your “purity.”
The “East” is just an arbitrary group of schools that the $@%$ NCAA puts together for playoff purposes. It’s frustrating to teams in other places because it allows weaker teams to go deeper into the playoffs. This allows them to gain exposure and boast about reaching the “National Semifinals” when, realistically, the East “champion” is probably not even in the 20 best teams in the nation.
With a little creativity, the morons at the NCAA could create a more balanced playoff bracket and still save their $$$$.
November 28th, 2005 at 10:14 pm
dutchman89 - I don’t think that DVC is all of that. This was originally nothing other than defending the East against, as you said, “the blowhards from the West”. If DVC is as average as you think that they are, shouldn’t Hobart have taken them apart last week? Was Hobart’s head coach just being kind when discussing how even he saw DVC and Union (as a point of reference given Union vs. Rowan)? Rowan’s head coach (a cocky guy) was quoted in the local paper as stating that Upstate NY, New England (Union, Hobart, Curry) had a ways to go to compete with Southeastern Pa and Southern NJ (Rowan and DVC). They’re not my words nor do I agree. Hobart, Union, DVC nor Rowan will be going to the Stagg (can you say Mount Union). DVC and Rowan are still standing and the winner will have one more week left and that’s it. Let’s not take this D3 thing to serious here……..it is about the books first and the ball second as we all know!!! Also, as much as I love the site, I highly doubt that there is a long line of Rowan players on the blog (let alone being aware of its’ very existence!!!).
Rowan’s injured stud QB is a dropdown from 1-AA, best RB from a 1-AA and All-American WR from a full-flegged, big time D1. William Patterson………please!!! Although they stopped Rowan from getting a #1 seed (Rowan admitted to taking them very lightly), it was their only win of the year!!!
And Raiderguy, speak to that which you know. Do you know the state of DVC’s program before Mangus came aboard? How about life support? Yes, he is that good and other larger school’s are taking notice. I didn’t mention a direct leap from D3 to D1 and I did say 7-10 years (which means their would be a stop or two in between). Rowan’s last two head coaches…… John Bunting went to the University of North Carolina and K.C. Keeler won a D1-AA national title at the University of Delaware (and won’t get it but is on the short list to replace Joe Pa at PSU). Let’s let the scholar-athletes (not an oxymoron at D3) have fun in between hitting the books and let us enjoy what my Penn State buddies mock me about…………the purity of D3 football!!!
November 28th, 2005 at 10:24 pm
wildcat in wisconsin - No matter what level of play we’re talking about, there is only one champion left standing at the end. And since you’re not going to beat (nor is anybody from the East) Linfield or Mount Union, what does it matter. Check out Trinity of Connecticut (don’t take part in the playoffs) and look at the schools on their schedule………Tufts, Amherst, etc. They call these schoold the little ivies (that’s Ivy League for you non-Easterners). Football bides time before they head off to Harvard Business School, med school or Yale Law School. Little Wesley of Delaware (20 point underdog) went out to Texas and spanked Mary Hardin-Baylor. Can you explain? (and yes, Delaware is in the Eastern U.S.). You don’t think schools like Rowan, Union, Delaware Valley College and Wesley belong in the Top 20 in the nation? You know very little about D3 football…….much less than the voters who put together the weekly national rankings. I guess you’re right and they’re all wrong????
November 28th, 2005 at 10:48 pm
I know Rowan didn’t last year after the monkey stomping they got in the semi’s.
November 28th, 2005 at 10:49 pm
Exactly my point: Wesley and Bridgewater are in the eastern US, yet somehow they’re not in the “East” bracket.
No, based on recent playoff results, I don’t think that DVC, Union, or Rowan are among the best 20 teams in the nation.
As for the rest of your post, you are setting yourself up as the definition of an East Coast Snob. Name the most famous graduate of Harvard Business School: Yes, it’s the “brilliant” GWB! Nuf’ ced!
November 28th, 2005 at 10:54 pm
DT48, small correction: LC’s victory over Rowan was actually a double monkey stomp plus a TD AND a FG.
November 28th, 2005 at 11:13 pm
wildcatinwi & downtown48 - Please don’t try to claim every non-Eastern team as yours. Especially you wildcatinwi…….they are your opponent this weekend, not your sister school. No matter who is in what region, if you are the best, you will be the one left standing. No one remembers or cares about the runnerup or the other 30 schools. Take matters into your own hands, beat Linfield and then crow about your school (which Linfield is not!!). No East coast snob here……..I’m not from any of the Little Ivies (Trinity, Tufts, Amherst, etc.). Get your facts straight about GWB…..the school and the word (it’s infamous not famous…..he’s a horses ass…..but please don’t knock an Ivy League MBA or an Ivy League Law Degree. I worked my butt off to get one of each after a D3 football playing undergrad dgree from a non-snobby school!!).
P.S. Given that they were a 20 point away underdog, in your animal language, what was Wesley’s victory at Mary Hardin-Baylor considered?
November 28th, 2005 at 11:18 pm
Dude, I’m a Linfield grad - that’s the “wildcat”. I came to Wisconsin and earned an advanced degree - of course I don’t crow about it at every opportunity so you probably wouldn’t understand.
November 28th, 2005 at 11:29 pm
wildcatinwi - My bad………..good luck against Mount Union at the Stagg and best of luck to Brett Elliott at the next level.
November 28th, 2005 at 11:32 pm
dukefinadv - Thanks for the good discussion! Good luck to whatever East team makes it. I hope they prove me wrong and give Mount a game.
November 28th, 2005 at 11:42 pm
mlusk…just a question…what do you have against the Sphinx club at Wabash College? Why are you taking shots at a school you rarely play and I cannot ever remember the last time you played us here. Are you really that afraid of the Little all male school in Crawfordsville? So we have guys cheering for us on the sidelines and leading the crowd in cheers and do push ups when we score. Have you ever seen the Wabash sideline during a game. There are usually a pretty close 1:1 guy to girl ratio. Not to mention you always have a form or entertainment if Wabash gets a large lead thanks to the Sphinx club rhynes. May be its b/c I go to Wabash that I don’t understand you but seriously what do you have against Wabash?
November 29th, 2005 at 7:30 am
wildcatinwi,
Although Bridgewater College may be in eastern U.S., I think most Shen. Valley Virginians would prefer to be called a Southerner than an East Coaster
November 29th, 2005 at 8:40 am
Wabash Man,
I was basically referring to the 2002 playoff game at Mount Union. The Sphinx Club was the most obnoxious group of cheerleaders I have seen.
I feel I can comment on this as I have attanded 90% of Mount Union’s home games since 1999. I have also seen games at John Carroll and B-W.
I have also attended the Stagg Bowl. Just poking a little fun. There was one individual on the Sphinx Club who continued to make rude and uneccessary comments to the Mount Union Fans even though it was clear that Wabash was finished. Wasn’t a real strong representative of your school. I have no hatred for Wabash. I’m most pleased that I don’t have to drive to Indiana this weekend. I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings. I’m just talking a little trash for the OAC.
November 29th, 2005 at 9:26 am
Hey man, Wabash always fights, you should know that.
November 29th, 2005 at 9:46 am
Rah, Rah go Little Giants fight, fight win.
November 29th, 2005 at 9:59 am
Sorry that we came to Mt. Union and cheered for our team ’til the bitter end. But I’m sorrier that you’re still bringing that up!
November 29th, 2005 at 10:43 am
MacSteve,
Thanks for the comments on the Linfield-Concordia College. The game had to have been a treat to be at and I find myself somewhat envious! I played for Concordia College under Coach Horan from ‘00-’04 and it was awesome. Division III may be small college country but anyone who has played in a competetive program knows how fun and exciting the atmosphere can be.
Three cheers to a postseason system that works and an extra hoo-rah to D3football.com. I hope everyone enjoys the rest of the season!
November 29th, 2005 at 11:30 am
Pikecat and others.
I find your analysis of SAT scores in the true fashion of an over priveleged easterner which i have hired to take 8 companies public on the NYSE.
To understand Mount Union you have to realize that we are a small college that educates mostly first generation college students from the rust belt of Ohio. This is not the ivy league and most kids are not expecting to go to college.
I was a vocational student in High School and only by the grace of God did I get a chance to get a college education. I also was an AP all American, acedimic All American and a All American wrestler. Coach Wable, Coach Kehres, and Coach MOngomery were the father I never had and took a rough country boy and turned him into a educated man. This is a place were geting good grades is expected, citizenship is taught and athlethics are how discipline is learned.
I am sorry to here that three athletes have not graduated since as of two years ago it was only one , but than again we did lose a game this year.
As a side note I have given the lead gift on two buildings on the campus , one which bears the name of Coach Wable. There is a lot more to Mount Union than FOOTBALL.
class of 1984
November 29th, 2005 at 12:14 pm
Steve: Great response.
BTW, my older brother played with you and has often spoken well of you. Glad to see you doing well, even if you were a Warrior before a Raider. LOL.
November 29th, 2005 at 12:54 pm
I am sure that someone has already stated it but good talent usually goes to winning programs. A lesser program might catch fire every once in a while, but seldom does it stay hot for a consistent period. The coaches of winning programs obviously have something in common…..they can recruit and most importantly coach their teams to wins on Saturdays. Once that tradition/consistency is established the winning programs recruit easier/get better talent because they have be known to WIN. Winning brings success and success brings name recognition/publicity for the school which inturn makes recruiting a little easier. My advice for those fans from schools whining about recruiting……quit talking and WIN.
Also haven’t you all heard that that the only difference between DII and DIII athletes is that DII athletes weren’t smart enough to get into DIII schools. Just a thought.
November 29th, 2005 at 1:00 pm
SmedIndy,
Cheering to the bitter end is fine. The way several of your students, fans and cheerleaders acted wasn’t representative of your school. I’m done with this topic, just as Wabash is from the Playoffs.
Great point Steve Harter. The academic discussion from the Easterner standpoint is getting old. Isn’t this website called D3football.com?
November 29th, 2005 at 1:29 pm
Steve, mlusk, etc.
–My point was only that schools like Mount Union, Linfield, Rowan, etc. do not appear to recruit football players who are lousy students just so they can win games. My mention of SAT scores for incoming freshmen was meant to illustrate that these powerhouse schools from diverse regions field solid teams year-in and year-out without having to recruit players who aren’t interested in being students. Mt. Union’s graduation rate (for example) reflects that very well.
I’m very surprised that anything I type reflects an east coast standpoint. I’ve lived my whole life in the Pacific Northwest.
November 29th, 2005 at 2:59 pm
Steve– I appreciate your response to MUC the institution. Well said!
The snobbery part of the above argument is that instead of talking about the academics of football teams in particular, we’re just comparing admissions statistics of the whole school. If the whole school played football, that would be relevant; but I’m pretty sure that no D3 school has every student play football. Don’t admissions stats only count getting in, and not what a student does while there?
I could give numerous examples of former SJU players that have played in one or two Stagg Bowls that are now doctors (or in med school) or lawyers (or in law school). I’m sure Linfield could do the same. Not to pick a sore spot, but there is but a single New Englander on the Draddy Trophy list this year– and he’s at Brown and originally from Virginia. http://www.footballfoundation.com/news.php?id=738
What’s great about D3 is that students actually go to class to get a day job, but do what they love on fall Saturdays. Be it SJU or Trinity Bible, Trinity (CT) or Cortland State, the students are the same– book hard during the week, go hard on Saturdays.
November 29th, 2005 at 3:16 pm
MUC has aprox. 2000 students as a whole and about 200 of them play football, whether on varsity, JV, etc. That is a huge % if u ask me. Yes MUC has a great football tradition, but most fof those kids dont play football on the field on Saturdays. But yet they still practice hard everday. They do it becuase they love the game and know that what is taught in the classroom is the most important aspect to them. Your right when you say that they “book hard during the week, go hard on Saturdays”
November 29th, 2005 at 3:43 pm
RaiderFan - Partial Answer to your question - “I am also trying to recall the last D3 coach that landed a head coaching job at a “major D1 school” coming out of D3.”
Dan Hawkins, Coach of Boise State came from Willamette University. You may argue if BSU is a major D-1 school, but if you pay attention, you will know that he has turned down offers and been considered for even bigger jobs.
I won’t dislcose any information regarding any advanced degree of my own, but I am certain that even the schools out West have produced some Ivy League Grad students. Linfield produced a World Series MVP, that was pretty rad.
I would like to see a Mt. Union - Linfield Stagg Bowl. Of course, I know that our Wildcats have their handful with UW Whitewater this week.
Go Cats!
November 29th, 2005 at 5:16 pm
Larry Kehres was offered the Head Job at Kent State a few years back and turned it down. Although many people would question whether that is considered a major college football program.
November 29th, 2005 at 6:28 pm
“Of coarse we have our Ithacas and Rowans that maybe exceptions but overall many more eastern schools represent true DIII scholar atheletes (not that I would take anything away from any student athelete, but this gentleman wishes to kncok the eastern region). This is not even a debate. The West has many wonderful schools with great programs but always remember, most choose from a different pool of students than many of the eastern schools do.”
–This is what I addressed in trying to flesh out the idea of which colleges field a team of good student athletes versus (paraphrasing) players who put football first and academics somewhere down the list. The quote deals with programs choosing from a different pool of students–presumably this means choosing which students are admitted. Admission standards seem to require some semi-universal measure of scholastic ability–ie the SAT. This seemed to be the original angle so it’s what I went with.
I can’t, with anything other than speculation, speak to the GPAs or graduation rates of football players. I understand, from previous posts, that MUC has an outstanding graduation rate. I believe it.
I have believed all along, and posted, that academic excellence and proficiency at football need not be mutually exclusive. Great teams can have great students. Conversely, great students can be great football players. This is not meant to be a dig at anybody, or to represent any biases. It is just my observation.
Over and out.
November 29th, 2005 at 8:27 pm
Lighten up. In D-3 there are public and private schools. Catholic and Christian schools. Schools with high admissions standards and schools with lower admissions standards. There are players who go to D-1, D-11 (etc) and miss playing in front of parents and friends. (prof’s #17 played a long pass away ROWAN football field at Glassboro High School, across the street from Rowan….was an all South Jersey quarterback, tons of passing td’s and running tds……spent 2 years in D-2 as a wide out—–missed family and friends….came back and PAID to go to Rowan for last two years). Go good grades in D2 and good grades at D-3. So what.
A football field (bbcourt, soccer field, bbfield, etc.) levels everyone to a common denominator. Player, wrestler, etc. SAT’s, high admission standards, Public or Private school, and tuition costs have no weight on the playing field.
Gonna be collecting Social Security in 2 years. Just enjoy the sports for what they really are……competition, sportsmanship (sportswomanship) and entertainment for old guys (gals).
Did 3 sports in high school (football, wrestling and track). To small, not good enough and not smart enough to go to college.
One coach (2 years out of HS) told me I should go to night college back in 1966. Since then, went to night college for 20 years….earned BA, MA, CAGS, and MBA.
Officiated 3 sports (soccer, wrestling, and baseball) for 20+ years. Last year had to have bi-lateral Knee replacements
…both knees now metal and plastic. Surgeon told me I had the knees of a 80 year old……only 59. So what.
Had three daughters who went to a Catholic High School, 2 graduated from Public Universities and one from a Catholic University. The middle daughter (lowest SAT’s) makes the higher salary from a public University that cost 30% of what the Catholic University cost. So what. What is…is. What is not….is not. We screw it up when we try to make what is..not and what is not ….is.
Am a graduate of Glassboro State College.(then Rowan College, then Rowan University). Was a fan when, Wacker, Bunting and Keehler were coaching football. Coach A. is a class act and so is his staff. If I had a son, I would want him to play for a coach (coaching staff) at Rowan.
My will (4 years old) has my ashes spread on the Rowan football field.
Then they put in artifical turf.
So what now.
November 29th, 2005 at 8:38 pm
D3forme
Obviously you missed my intended sarcasms.
I wouldn’t call a 28 to 24 score a “drubbing” to use your words.
I think last week score tell us that Rowan is beatable this year!
Is DV the team?
I don’t know, we’ll find out.
But if you are a history buff check the records and you decide which team is more dominant in their region
Rowan in the East or Mount Union in the North ?
My research suggest there is no contest MU has represented the North much more than Rowan has represented the East..
The most balanced regions are clearly the South and West.
If you check, I think the last time a team other than MU won OAC was in the mid 80’s when many of the current MU players were still wearing three corner pants.
I think what you are really complaining about is the East representatives haven’t done well in the semi’s and you want the NCAA to seed the East with teams from the Mid West and the South.
If this is your issue it has nothing to do with last weeks game!
By the way I am no fan of Rowan, both my sons went to Union.
But as a fan of D3 football I want to see local teams compete in each of the brakets when possible. Based on the perfromances on the field so far the Eastern Region has had the best balance. I have no complaints!
November 29th, 2005 at 9:28 pm
Reading some of these comments makes me laugh. People keep writing and stating that schools like Rowan only suceed with Divison I players and their academics are poor. First, the school is a public institution, not a private. The standards are different than many schools but it will not except students with SAT’s lower than a 1080. It’s not Harvard or even some other schools but don’t write and state that it is a school that any student athlete can get into. I know for a fact that 3 of it’s wide receiver’s were all being recruited by and excepted into Ivy League schools. If you are a good football player and are from the state of New Jersey and want to play at a high level and for a successful program, you will go to Rowan. Second, don’t tell me that any coach in Division III would turn down a Division I player who would like to transfer to their school. Linfield didn’t turn down Brett Elliott or their corner from Oregon State. If you think they would, you are out of your mind. Yes, Rowan has a few transfers from DI schools, but they also have a strong foundation built off of quality recruits that have made this program a different animal. If you think that the East can not hold it’s own than why is the South Bracket Final made up of teams from the East and one of them just beat last years national runner up. Some people should investigate a little more deeply into some of the areas in which they speak of before they write some ridiculous comments on a comment blog. Speak from knowledge not from the heart.
November 29th, 2005 at 9:28 pm
foxsden, Okay, now I see why you keep dwelling on the 1 playoff win out of the last 10 or so for Rowan that wasn’t a complete blowout. You are a Union fan. That’s fine - good effort. But, you still lost despite the fact you had the game at home AND Orihel did not play. How much worse would it have been had the stud been in there? I get the feeling MUCH worse. You say Rowan is beatable this year. Man, I would hope so! The most important player on their team is holding a clipboard.
And my point was never about MUC’s dominance. That’s obvious, but at least they have performed well once they get out of the North. The exact opposite has occurred for the East. My beef is not with Rowan - anyone can get beaten by the best team(s) from another region. My beef is with all of the other teams not named Rowan in the East. Rowan has lost many times (sometimes by a lot) once out of the East, but the “top” teams in their region have been losing to them by about 35/game. What on earth does that say about the strength of the East? And like I said previously, now these teams have the best opportunity to finally make a claim it’s not just Rowan and everyone else a very distant second. They get to play the Profs without their QB and in Union’s case they even got them at home. And still no cigar for any other East region squad. I can’t possibly disagree with you anymore when you say the “Eastern Region has had the best balance.” Nothing could be farther from the truth. It’s a one trick pony. Even if DVC wins this Saturday (and I’m not necessarily counting on it) that still means it took the East three tries against a wounded team playing on the road.
And lastly, I think it’s been a bad week for you. You have quoted me again with a word I did not use. I have yet to use the word “drubbing” in any of my previous posts.
November 29th, 2005 at 10:16 pm
Re: profs_fan
Your knees might be gone but your vision is 20-20!
The problem with your approach is that if we all behaved ourselves, there would be no more spirited debate.
It’s all part of the experience…the passion of conviction and ultimately(if you’re interested in looking for it) recognizing the wisdom/age coefficient.
It’s been 30 years since I took my SATs…not even sure what a coefficient is let alone whether or not it’s spelled right.
Go figure!
Go Cats!
November 30th, 2005 at 10:13 am
It’s been so long since I took my SAT’s I can barely spell SAT. The bottom line is this is D-3 and the playoff brackets are set according to the rules and yes better teams may get lower seeds in other regions. I will say the same thing here that I have said about the playoffs for D-3 hoops. Until someone wins the MegaMillionaire lottery or someone like Donald Trump decides to donate a ton of money to the NCAA to pay for balanced regions this is what we live with. D-3, D-2, D-1AA and the NAIA all have playoffs and can all point to a legitimate champion by the end of December, D-1 can’t.
As far as the schools go, I think the majority of D-3 schools are doing it the right way and giving their students the best oppuntunity to get an education and to keep playing sports for a few more years. A kid that goes to a school like NJCU, Kean or William Paterson is quite often the first person in that family to go to college and sometimes the first person to graduate high school, this is especially true at NJCU where I have met many of these students. Many of these students still struggle to speak and write in English. Many attended Jersey City NJ public schools, which the state of NJ took over almost twenty years ago and will not be turning them over to local control anytime soon.
NJ is a lot like how Steve Harter described where he grew up in Ohio. The economy of the state was based mainly on industry and farming. The industries started leaving the state and many times the country. The small farms are being bought up by developers and the big coporate farms are driving the little guys under. People who knew that all they had to do was graduate high school and they would be able to get a good job working in a NJ factory have had to seek alternate means of income and a better education.
Ok I have digressed from my main point which I have now forgotten. I will finish with this. Since the early nineties Rowan has been the best program in the East by far, the only teams that have knocked them off have been other NJAC teams for the most part. Rowan may lose in the semi-finals or finals a lot of times but they get that far almost every year. Nobody has consistantly stepped up to challenge them yet. I think some team will in the next few years but it hasn’t happened yet.
November 30th, 2005 at 11:42 am
Engine45 - I am curious to know what corner at Linfield is a transfer from Oregon State. Enlighten me.
November 30th, 2005 at 1:07 pm
heavy,
He’s talking about last year’s team. O.J. Gulley was a transfer from Oregon State where he walked on the OSU basketball team. He never played or tried out for football at Oregon State. He then transfered to Linfield to play Basketball…after a couple of seasons as the Linfield starting point guard, a few of his buddies on the football team in 2003, talked him into coming out for football.
He was a backup most first year in 2003 as he “re-learned” football and started to play heavy minutes towards the end of the year and wound up starting in 2004 and had a great year.
Great kid and a fine player.
November 30th, 2005 at 1:22 pm
heavy,
correction…. O.J. went to Oregon St. to only be a student and not walk on the basketball team. There Oregon State’s baskeball coach tried to get O.J. to come out for the team. He declined and then transfered to Linfield.
November 30th, 2005 at 1:51 pm
Let’s see if I can put some of this into perspective. D-I vs DIII. I have a son who plays for Linield. I just want to shed some light on how he got there.
First off I just want to say how truly blessed we are as parents to have our sons and daughters play at this level of college sports.
My son was very fortunate to play high school football under a coaching staff that was primarily linfield college alumni. Every year in the summer we, along with many other high schools from the local areas attended summer football camps held by the college.
These where great camps for our high school football players to get some outstanding coaching and to also get a feel for staying in the college dorm atmosphere. But on the flip side, it also gave the college coaching staff the ability to look at some of the local talent in the area. It was great experience all the way around, even for a father. NOW, here’s the IMPORTANT part.
I’ as a father had many discussions with my sons high school football coach and also his baseball coach as to what direction my son should go in, whether or not trying to go to a D-I or D-III school, and here’s what they both said. What you will get when you go to a D-I school you will no doubt be in a big atmosphere, thousands upon thousands of students, the big venues of D-I, television etc. They (the coaches) said you will probably make a couple of hundred friends there at the D-I school along with a glitter that goes along with it. What made the most impact to my son and I both was this statement. They said when all is said and done you will leave Linfield college or any small college for that point, with 20 to 30 tight nit friends for life. They both said in the small college you will bond with other students, coaches and other parnets in a way that can’t be accomplished in the larger colleges. And let me tell you they where dead on the mark.
When my son played his last high school football game I balled like a baby. I thought I had watched my sons last football game. One of the great opportunities that came with choosing Linfield as our sons college was the ability for him to play 2 sports. he was primarily a baseball recruit and we thought baseball would be his college future. Well needless to say D-III gave him that opportunity. You are truly reading from a very blessed father and I’m so thankful that I listened to those high school coaches advice.
What I believe to the most important thing is that the relationships made thru these last 4.5 years have been a blessing like none other. When we left the high school level I didn’t think I could have bettered the fun, the friends made and the excitement of watching my son play, but boy was I ever wrong. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that this could not of been obtained at a D-I school. I do believe I speak for most parents on our team, even the Elliots, what a blessing it is to have our sons so close to HOME.
I thank God and all the D-III schools for the last 4.5 years of my life.
Kenny
November 30th, 2005 at 2:18 pm
wildcat1144,
I knew that already, I was just curious to see a response cause I haven’t seen Dailey in pass coverage yet.
Kenny,
See ya saturday.
November 30th, 2005 at 3:46 pm
Has anyone outside the Bridgewater family given the BC defense any credit for stepping it up for the playoffs? During the regular season, the Eagle defense was not good statistically, but it did what it needed to do to preserve the win.
Now since the playoffs began, the defense has actually contributed to the wins. Not bad for a defense that was rated 167 out of 228.
Keep it up BC. Offense, defense, special teams. To Delaware, then Oregon (or Wisconsin, we don’t care) then back “home” to Virginia.
November 30th, 2005 at 6:28 pm
your talking about a muc-linfield national championship but i’m not saying that capital will but muc just give them a chance
my dad played on a football team in high school that was horrible. The year after he graduates they win the state title. He got something better. He was a backup o-lineman on capital university’s 1970 national championship football team. He is now a police chief in north carolina.
November 30th, 2005 at 10:34 pm
There is no 1970 Capital national championship football team. There was no national championship at that level in that season.
Before 1973, there were two regional championships, but no national final.
December 1st, 2005 at 12:01 am
The subtle (and some not-so-subtle) implications that Linfield has somehow violated the spirit of DIII by allowing a former DI athlete to play for them smells an awful lot like sour grapes. Brett Elliott had many alternatives open to him after his injury (all of them cheaper than the route he chose!). I can’t be sure of his motivations for transferring to Linfield, but I doubt it was because he thought he could chew up the competition, set records, win a couple of titles and get drafted. In fact, the only thing that makes sense, and that which he has stated publicly, is that he transferred to a DIII school for the same reasons most DIII athletes begin their college careers at these institutions; good education, close to home, chance to continue to play a sport they love, etc. So, are we going discount Linfield’s success of the last two years and deny Mr. Elliott a vote for the Gagliardi Trophy because he chose to play at Utah for two years?
December 1st, 2005 at 12:15 am
I understand that Linfield has been an amazing squad all year, but why is everybody writing off UW-Whitewater? Maybe I’m one of the few on here who gets to see the games each week, and if that’s the case, I understand. I have been watching UWW football for the past 4 years as a student. They have always had a somewhat solid team; a team that could have beaten a good number of playoff teams in their respective years. This year is by far the best team I have seen. The WIAC is not an easy conference to go undefeated in, and these Warhawks did it with ease. Dont count these guys out just yet. With a solid defense, and THE BEST running back/O-line in D-III their is no blow out this weekend. If the Warhawks lose, it will be decided in the last 2-3 minutes. No need for argument from the Linfield fanatic, because I am not downplaying how good your team is. I just believe in my team’s ability. It should be a great game. GO WARHAWKS!
December 1st, 2005 at 12:48 am
This will no doubt date me (as if my handle didn’t already), but….
mlusk and SmedIndy,
I didn’t attend the 2002 playoff game between MUC and Wabash. I did read a story in the Bachelor, the Wabash student publication, which reported the writer’s experience at the 2002 Wittenberg game which Wabash won on a field goal, 43-42. The reporter described rather proudly how certain Wabash students had, in my view, been less than sportsmanlike in their behavior towards their hosts throughout the game.
I wrote a letter to the Bachelor’s editor articulating my contention that such behavior was inconsistent with the Gentlemen’s Rule, the one-sentence code of conduct which distinguishes Wabash from most other colleges.
Unfortunately, I am inclined to believe mlusk’s interpretation of the events surrounding the Wabash-MUC playoff game, and I’m not happy in doing so. I would like to believe sportsmanship prevails in DIII competition.
BigKenDog, kudos to you, and thank you for sharing your perspective.
My point is not to drudge up three-year-old
December 1st, 2005 at 12:51 am
Disregard “My point is not to drudge up three-year old”
December 1st, 2005 at 10:26 am
I knew UW Whitewater would win that game - just like they will win against Linfield. Actually, they are going to win it all.
Hail, hail Mount Union. They stomped my Augustana Vikings. It looks like they are going to the Stagg Bowl again. Not because they beat Augie, but because they are that good. Dang.
UWW Fan,
Don’t worry man, the Warhawks are going to win it all. They come from the deepest, toughest conference in the country. They will win it all. If you can go undefeated in that conference, then you are a serious contender.
December 1st, 2005 at 11:47 am
I played on the 88′Wesley team that won 1 game. It was our last game of the season and it broke a 32/33 game losing streak. The Wesley football program has come a long way since then. Coach Drass has done a great job coaching in addition to recruiting better players. Good luck to Wesley this weekend.
December 1st, 2005 at 1:35 pm
You wouldn’t happen to know if that 1992 game vs. Bridgewater is accurate, would you? Couldn’t get a media guide from either to answer me, just http://www.footballvideos.com
Since we (R-MC) and Hampden-Sydney regularly played Wesley in those days, I figure going to Va. for another game is likely … but it could be Bridgewater State too.
Hmmph.
December 1st, 2005 at 2:32 pm
Not sure. My last year was 90′. I know that Wesley started playing different schools after that. I believe some of them were in VA.
December 1st, 2005 at 3:12 pm
D3Keith,
On page 288 of the ODAC Board, a former BC-football player mentioned losing to Wesley in ‘93 in Delaware. Good chance that ‘92 game was BC Eagles vs Wesley.
December 1st, 2005 at 3:36 pm
pcole
are you making it to one of the games this weekend?
December 1st, 2005 at 3:37 pm
There sure has been alot of gnashing of teeth over academics, D I transfers, and veiled allegations of unfair competition. The world isn’t perfect but D III football generally seems to be a breath of fresh air vis a vis its D I counterpart, whose admissions standards often strain one’s credulity. I’m sure a Union or a Trinity (Ct) would welcome a D I transfer if he were academically eligible. We don’t hold the integrity of D III football as being the least bit suspect. The Linfield’s of the world play by the same rules as every one else and could not be more deserving.
December 1st, 2005 at 7:31 pm
As a long time resident in Schenectay and a recent Union grad I was just excited to see Union competing on the national level again. It’s been a long time since they looked that good. Not making excuses but had the weather been cooperative Union would have dominated this game…but thats why they actually play the game. The game last weekend was great nontheless. The energy and excitement at Frank Bailey Field made this game legendary. From a prior comment the best way to describe Rowan was ‘gutty.’ They hung around long enough and had what I believe is known as playoff experience and pulled it out. I am really excited about next year and am looking forward to another great game between these two schools. Sals
December 2nd, 2005 at 2:13 pm
Bridgewater/Wesley Series Scores
‘91 Wesley 40-0 in Dover
‘92 Wesley 26-13 at BC
‘93 Wesley 31-10 at BC
‘94 Wesley 42-0 in Dover
December 2nd, 2005 at 5:01 pm
I’m not a fan of UW-Whitewater, but whatever anyone else says they’re going to win it all. Going undefeated in the WIAC is one of the toughest things to do. I will be surprised if Linfield beats the Warhawks. As for all the teams in the East, sorry not this year.
December 2nd, 2005 at 5:04 pm
Re: “Bridgewater/Wesley Series Scores
‘91 Wesley 40-0 in Dover
‘92 Wesley 26-13 at BC
‘93 Wesley 31-10 at BC
‘94 Wesley 42-0 in Dover
Before 2000, Bridgewater use to get shellacked consistently by numerous teams- so did Wesley for that matter.
Hats off to both programs for turning it around. It appears as long as their coaching staffs stay in place- they will be South region contenders for years to come.
In my opinion- if Wesley plays the way they did last week- this game may not be as close as people predict.
December 2nd, 2005 at 8:32 pm
Mount Union is the most overrated team that’s still left in the playoffs. I think they had their era and you’re not going to be hearing much about them in the next few years.
December 2nd, 2005 at 9:41 pm
d3fan
If you plan on spending the “next few years” locked in your basement then no truer words have ever been spoken.
December 2nd, 2005 at 9:58 pm
D3fan….. Are you just looking for a reaction….. I mean c’mon….
I don’t post much… but I pay alot of attention to these blogs.
I am a Mt. Union faithful, so I admit I have a bias. However you cannot be serious… With Capital… Del Valley still in….. You say Mt. Union is overrated… You cannot be serious….
I will admit that they may have had their era… but the talent is deep and a new era may be starting…. And, You would have to admit… they are Stagg Bowl bound…. Del Valley… Capital… Rowan… do not stand much of a chance with them on all cylinders like they are now…
Therefore, I respectfully disagree with the overrated statement….
December 2nd, 2005 at 10:00 pm
Plus, I do remember that many people on this stated that Augustana would wipe the floor with them…. And we know that outcome… 44-7
December 2nd, 2005 at 10:23 pm
I want some of that stuff that D3fan has been smoking. Comments like that are border line embarassing.
December 2nd, 2005 at 10:36 pm
He’s at least one toke over the line.
December 2nd, 2005 at 10:43 pm
What in the world is going on with you d3fan? Are you “nuts”. Did your girlfriend crack you in the head with a skillet? Mt. Union, believe it or not, is loading up again for another run. They may not be as dominent as they have in years past, but they will still get the athletes and they will still be well coached as Mount teams have been in the past. Will they miss a presence of a Don Montgomery, absolutely, but at Mount, you just RELOAD !! They will lose alot of fine athletes next year but they will have almost all of their skill positions back on offense and many young players waiting in the wings. Lets face the real facts, Mount can’t even get people to play JV games with them. They really should start lining up with local D II teams if local D III teams aren’t interested in continuing to get their tails whipped. Just a thought.
December 2nd, 2005 at 10:46 pm
By the way d3fan, I’m new to this BLOG…..where are you from????
December 2nd, 2005 at 10:48 pm
Thanks Conrad for the scores.
December 2nd, 2005 at 10:59 pm
Bigmucfan makes prediction for tomorrow’s Mount/Capital game.
Mount Union 45 Capital 17 > Anyone who has watched this team the last couple of weeks (Mount that is) will tell you that they’re running on ALL cylinders. They can run or pass the ball with the best of ummmm, and they’ve played GREAT defense all year. I’ve always been a believer that you WIN with defense, but its also nice to have an offense that can score. It’s going to be a LONG bus ride back home to Columbus, OH for Capital….however, I will admit…they had a great year, but it’ll be over at around 2:30 pm tomorrow. Right d3fan !!!!!!!
December 2nd, 2005 at 10:59 pm
Well, I will admit one thing D3FAN…. You got the reaction you must have wanted…
Mount by 20+
Also praying for Rowan… –> that means we stay in alliance for one more… Not excited about traveling to PA.
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:02 pm
What do you think mikeb525….was d3fan drunk when he typed those comments?
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:08 pm
I’m still hyped up….I can’t go to bed…I can’t sleep….I need for d3fan to sober up and write a retraction….take a cold shower….wake up, wake up d3fan !!
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:11 pm
Well… I’d have to say there is nothing wrong with being drunk…. but comments like that are terrible…. I have been at every Mt. game in the past 3 years (home and away) Except for Washington last season and I seriously don’t feel the era is over….
I mean let’s look at it…. A lost in National Finals to St. John’s (respectable)… A semi’s lost to MHB on an answered prayer…. (lucky)
and Ohio Northern (a tough OAC rival)…. What is the rest of D3’s record over the past 10 years…. Oh yea… Nuff said….
No other team in all of D3 even comes close to an era like Mt. Union….
D3FAN says the era is over…. I say the era continues…..
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:14 pm
mikeb525—–enough said !! I can now go to bed and sleep peacefully !!
GO MOUNT !!!!!!!!!!!!! Mount 45 Capital 17. They may not even get 17. Later !!!
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:27 pm
OK, d3fan, the ball’s in your court. Time to speak up. Otherwise, mikeb525 covered it…you wanted a reaction.
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:27 pm
Mount Union WILL be at the Stagg Bowl this year, but I’m trying to say that next year is when they’ll start going down hill. Don’t get me wrong, they will beat Capital, and all of the other Eastern schools with no problem.
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:29 pm
d3fan,
Then you mis-spoke. An overrated team does not reach the Stagg Bowl.
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:31 pm
Unless it faces lesser-rated teams on the way there.
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:32 pm
All you need to do now d3fan is put your money where you mouth is. When you say down hill what do you mean? You really need to be more specific. One or two loses during the regular season……never again making it through the 1st or 2nd rounds of playoffs. I need more information. Thanks for responding !! By the way….you must NOT be aware of their last (3) recruiting classes.
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:33 pm
I probably shouldn’t have used the word “overrated”. I remember reading some articles (NOT on d3football) that Mount Union wasn’t as strong of team as people were saying they were. Like I say, don’t get me wrong, Mount Union is a good team this year and they proved that last week against Augustana. I didn’t mean to offend anyone, that was not my goal.
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:33 pm
pcole,
So are USC and Texas overrated?
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:35 pm
Not necessarily. I never said that anyone that beats only lower-rated teams MUST be overrated. I said that an overrated team could reach the national title game by beating lower-rated teams.
Don’t put words in my mouth. Your logic skills need work.
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:37 pm
No problem d3fan….being a bigmucfan you just hit a nerve. I do hope that you’re wrong regarding their heading “down hill”.
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:44 pm
My apologies if I’m guilty of the accusation. Putting words in your mouth was not my intent. However, I thought your statement was sufficently open-ended enough to justify the inference on my part.
Chill out, friend. You provide a great service to all d3fans.
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:47 pm
CAN WE ALL JUST GET ALONG !!!!!!! (lol)
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:51 pm
Thanks for the compliments, but you were making a stretch and you know it.
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:51 pm
Does anyone out their think that UW-Whitewater has a shot at upsetting Linfield?? Or would it be an upset??
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:52 pm
YES!!! It’s all d3fan’s fault. JUST KIDDING!!!
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:55 pm
I couldn’t agree more….(lol). You don’t mind taking the blame d3fan, do you ??
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:56 pm
pcole,
In all sincerity, I didn’t think my comment was as great a stretch as you think. Let’s just leave it at that, OK?
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:58 pm
O.K…. the lesser rated team comment urks me…. Does that mean over the past 8-10 years Mt. Union was lucky becuase they played lesser rated teams to get to the Stagg…. and then to win most of them…. I think that is putting down the strength of the teams they have played… no matter what conference…. Is that disrespectful to those teams?? Only so many can get in….
Granted… This year against MSJ… O.K.
Augustana… not exactly a push over from what I read …..
But if they face WW or Linfield at the Stagg and win… Does that make those teams lesser rated…??? Just a bit confused by the less rated comment…
anticipating a great debate…..
December 2nd, 2005 at 11:59 pm
I think that UW-Whitewater will beat Linfield. They’re obviously a big contender going undefeated in the WIAC, and beating #3 St. John’s last week. This sounds like a pretty even match up, and it should be a good game.
December 3rd, 2005 at 12:01 am
By the way D3FAN… what a great comment to get the blog rolling….
Very impressed….
December 3rd, 2005 at 12:01 am
seven turnovers…. will never be a game…..
December 3rd, 2005 at 12:02 am
Sounds like a great game